Kells Round Tower

Kells Round Tower dates to the 10th century, when it was built to protect the monastic settlement against Norse invasion. Nearly a thousand years of exposure to the elements have taken their toll, prompting the Office of Public Works to undertake ongoing restoration and conservation work on the structure. As part of this programme, the OPW required a solution to prevent birds from entering the tower while preserving full access for future maintenance. Tara Steel and Engineering was contracted to design and fit removable window guards to both the interior and exterior of the building.

Following consultation on the range of options available, a powder-coated stainless steel guard was selected, featuring a removable face and concealed fixing details to maintain the tower's visual integrity.

All brackets and frames were manufactured off-site at our factory before being brought to Kells for an initial test fit. Because the brackets could only be secured at mortar joints, each one had to be individually surveyed, marked, and drilled on site to suit its specific window. Mesh panels were similarly custom-cut on site to maintain a consistent 5mm clearance around each frame, ensuring the steel would never come into contact with — or mark — the historic stonework. Once test-fitted and confirmed, the frames were returned to our workshop for welding and powder coating, then brought back to Kells for final installation